TERMS AGREED ✅️: Manchester United Dropped Out of Gyökeres Race, Agree Personal Terms with Another Striker Who’s an Upgraded Version to Benjamin Šeško — Medical Scheduled to Hold Tomorrow
In a dramatic twist to what has been a pulsating transfer window, Manchester United have officially dropped out of the race to sign Viktor Gyökeres, opting instead to pursue — and now successfully agree personal terms with — another highly-rated striker, who sources describe as an “upgraded version” of Benjamin Šeško. The club has scheduled a medical for the new target tomorrow, signaling the final steps before a full announcement that could reshape United’s attacking future.
This latest development marks a strategic pivot by United. While Gyökeres had been a long-term target, valued for his physical presence and goal-scoring exploits with Sporting CP, internal analysis and managerial preference under Rúben Amorim appear to have prompted a change of course. Amorim, known for his tactical flexibility and focus on intelligent pressing systems, reportedly played a key role in redirecting the club’s focus toward a younger, more dynamic forward better suited to his vision.
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Why United Walked Away from Gyökeres
Viktor Gyökeres had a stellar season with Sporting, scoring over 40 goals in all competitions and catching the attention of top clubs across Europe. Manchester United were deeply interested, with scouts attending multiple matches and early talks taking place between the two camps.
However, there were several key reasons behind the decision to exit the race:
1. Financial Overreach: Sporting were holding firm on a release clause of nearly €100 million (£85 million). With United needing to balance FFP restrictions and strengthen multiple positions, the cost was deemed excessive.
2. System Compatibility: While Gyökeres is undoubtedly a powerful finisher, Amorim reportedly had concerns about his fit in a fluid, high-pressing, technically intricate attacking system. Amorim values mobility and tactical intelligence as much as pure goal-scoring.
3. Long-Term Vision: The club’s strategy has shifted to younger, moldable talents with high resale value and developmental upside. Investing a massive fee in a 26-year-old striker who may not adapt perfectly tactically didn’t align with the new model.
In the end, Manchester United decided to pull out early, allowing them to focus their attention and resources elsewhere — and it now appears that decision is paying off handsomely.
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Enter the New Target: An Upgrade on Benjamin Šeško
With Gyökeres off the table, United moved swiftly to close in on another striker — one who insiders believe offers greater long-term potential and stylistic compatibility. While the identity has not yet been confirmed through official channels, reports from reputable journalists strongly hint that the club has agreed personal terms with Brian Brobbey, the Dutch forward currently with Ajax.
Brobbey, 23, is widely regarded as a modern striker — combining power, pace, and close control with intelligent movement and positional awareness. Having played under Amorim’s coaching counterparts in the Eredivisie, and with prior links to Ten Hag and now Amorim, he is seen as a better tactical fit than both Šeško and Gyökeres.
Why He’s Considered an Upgrade on Šeško
Benjamin Šeško, recently signed by RB Leipzig and linked heavily with United in past windows, is another promising striker, but Brobbey holds key advantages:
More Complete Forward Play: Brobbey offers stronger hold-up play and link-up ability. He can operate as a target man or drop into midfield pockets, enabling intricate play with wingers and midfielders.
Physical Maturity: Unlike Šeško, who’s still developing physically and tactically, Brobbey has already adapted to senior-level football, having had successful stints at both Ajax and RB Leipzig.
Experience in Big Matches: Brobbey has featured in European competitions, high-pressure league matches, and has consistently delivered in key moments — something United’s current frontline often lacks.
Familiarity with Amorim’s Style: Though he hasn’t played under Amorim directly, Brobbey’s playing style aligns well with the Portuguese coach’s pressing demands, technical requirements, and vertical passing systems.
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The Deal Structure: Personal Terms Agreed, Medical Scheduled
According to multiple sources close to the negotiations, Manchester United and the player’s representatives reached full agreement on personal terms late last night. The agreed contract is expected to run until June 2030, with performance-related bonuses and image rights now ironed out.
The transfer fee is believed to be in the range of £45–50 million, considerably less than what Sporting demanded for Gyökeres. This price represents excellent value for a player with elite potential and aligns with the club’s revamped recruitment policy.
A medical is scheduled for tomorrow at United’s Carrington training base. Assuming all goes well, an official unveiling could follow within 48 hours — potentially as part of a double announcement alongside another signing currently being finalized.
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What This Means for United’s Attack
The addition of this new striker — likely Brobbey — brings much-needed reinforcement to United’s attack. With Rasmus Højlund showing signs of development but also needing rotation and support, the arrival of another dynamic centre-forward could unlock multiple benefits:
Squad Depth & Flexibility: United often looked short of ideas when Højlund wasn’t available. A second striker gives Amorim tactical options: double strikers in a 3-5-2, or a rotational press in a 4-3-3.
Increased Competition: Højlund won’t be allowed to become complacent, and both players can push each other to raise performance levels.
Tactical Synergy: Amorim’s system thrives on fast transitions and striker rotations. With two young, athletic forwards who can play off each other or lead the line alone, the system becomes more unpredictable.
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Fan Reaction: Excitement and Relief
Fan response to the news has been overwhelmingly positive. While many were initially excited by the idea of Gyökeres, a growing portion of the fanbase have warmed to the club’s approach of smart, strategic investment over headline-chasing.
A popular sentiment on social media reads:
> “Gyökeres was nice, but £100M? Nah. We’ve just got a younger, hungrier baller for half the price — and he actually fits Amorim’s system. Win-win.”
Another wrote:
> “Finally a signing that makes tactical AND financial sense. This is what a proper rebuild looks like.”
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What’s Next?
After the medical, Manchester United are expected to finalize paperwork and begin unveiling preparations. But the striker signing isn’t the end — United are also chasing a right-back, a defensive midfielder, and possibly another ball-playing centre-back.
With Amorim clearly having influence over the club’s strategy, fans can expect more signings that reflect a clear tactical blueprint rather than isolated marquee names. The days of scattergun transfer windows may be behind United.
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Final Thoughts: Smart Business, Bright Future
Manchester United’s decision to walk away from the Gyökeres deal was bold — and potentially brilliant. By choosing a striker more aligned with Amorim’s style, more suited to long-term development, and available at a more reasonable price, the club is proving that smarter thinking is finally taking hold in the boardroom.
With personal terms agreed and a medical set for tomorrow, the Red Devils are just hours away from completing a pivotal signing — one that could shape their attack for years to come
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And just maybe, under Amorim, Manchester United are beginning to look like a club with a real plan again.
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